Electra inks production deal with Safran for 250 TG600 turbogenerators powering EL9 hybrid aircraft
Production agreement includes initial 250-unit order for new Arrano-based TG600 system. Safran Helicopter Engines (SHE) has been selected to supply its TG600 turbogenerator to the Electra EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. Building on a memorandum of understanding signed by the pair in 2023, the "life-of-programme production agreement" includes an initial order for 250 TG600 systems. Electra is targeting 2030 service entry for the EL9, a goal assisted by a recent agreement with the US Federal Aviation Administration establishing its certification basis under the regulator's Part 23 commuter aircraft category. First flight is expected in late 2027 or early 2028. Combining a 1,300shp (970kw)-class Arrano turboshaft engine – which also equips the Airbus Helicopters H160 medium-twin – with a pair of GENeUS generators from sister company Safran Electrical & Power, the TG600 delivers a 600kW output. This in turn powers the eight Evolito electric motors arrayed on the EL9's wing. In July, SHE performed the first bench test of the turbogenerator that will power the EL9’s maiden flight. Electra says the distributed propulsion system and blown-wing configuration means the EL9 should be capable of taking off and landing in as little as 45m (150ft). "This agreement is a defining step forward for Electra and for the future of advanced air mobility," says Marc Allen, chief executive of Electra. “The signing of this contract marks a major milestone in our collaboration with Electra and signifies the official launch of our turbogenerator activities, a promising new chapter that complements our leadership in turboshaft technology," says Cedric Goubet, Safran Helicopter Engines chief.